Boss pleased by Tomahawk progress

Head Coach Richard Hill has praised front row Oliver Tomaszczyk for his development at Sixways this season - and believes the young prop can make an impact at the highest level as he continues to improve at Warriors.

Tomaszczyk - a big fan's favourite and known around Sixways by his nickname the Tomahawk - moved to Warriors last season from Oxford University.

Hill admits the move from studying to professional rugby has been a big step for Tomaszczyk, but believes the London-born powerhouse - who has made 12 senior appearances this term - has learnt a great deal from his time at Sixways.

"I think this year has been very good for Oliver," said Hill, who will watch the prop play Newcastle Falcons A this Monday night.

"This first year has been about adjusting to life as a professional rugby player. He has been a student so to suddenly come into a very disciplined environment, where there are lots of rules and regulations, has been a massive adjustment for him.

"I think he has done very well to improve as a rugby player - his scrummaging has improved no end - but this has been a massive learning process for him.

"Most players take several years before they fully understand what it takes to be a professional rugby player. There is a huge amount involved with being a professional sportsman and he has done a lot of good work.

"Oliver has raw potential and his attitude is very, very good. He is aggressive and wants to do well. Next year could be a big year for him.

"Without a doubt he could handle the Premiership - if you are that size you can handle it," added Hill

"You get some big men who are soft and you know if they had a bit of heart they would be superb. Oliver has got both. He has a will to win but also that aggressive attitude to do well. He is a big, big man for a tight-head prop.

"He has changed his shape and is looking tremendous. He has put a huge amount of work in and when you see him running his fitness scores have improved dramatically. He is much more mobile.

"I think he has done really well to get where he is, it is a full-on environment with a lot of people who have been professional for many years, but he has done exceptionally well."